Govinda in legal trouble over misleading ad

By Hindustan Times

A complaint has been filed by FDA (Food and Drug Administration) against Bollywood actor Govinda under various sections of the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act over endorsing Sandhi Sudha plus, reports Mid Day.

The FDA had demanded action against the drug manufacturers, scriptwriters and actors who promote the products, as well as television channels on which they are aired.

"Promoting such drugs is a complete violation of the law. These advertisements are completely misleading and companies end up extracting huge amounts from unsuspecting people who see the ads. Hence, we had written to Bollywood stars telling them not to violate the law. We have recently received a reply from Govinda, who claimed his innocence as he was unaware of the law," a source from FDA told the tabloid.

D R Gahane, assistant commissioner (drugs), told the tabloid: "We have received a letter from Govinda stating he was unaware of the law and he has assured us that he will speak to the manufacturer to withdraw the ad."

The violation of the act could result in six months imprisonment, a fine or both, for the first conviction. Subsequent convictions would lead to imprisonment for a year or fine or both.

When contacted by Mid Day, Govinda said: "You don't have to be a scientist to do a toothpaste ad. As an actor, I did my job."

What the Act says:
It states that unless prescribed by a registered medical practitioner, no person or company shall take part in publication of an advertisement referring to any drug that is used for:
1) Procurement of miscarriage in women or prevention of conception.
2) Maintenance or improvement of the capacity for sexual pleasures
3) Correction of menstrual disorder in women
4) Diagnosis, mitigation, cure or prevention of any disease specified in the act.